Sun 22 February - Dragon Parade, Chinese New Year Cultural Showcase

Date: Sunday 22 February 2026 12pm-5pm 

Chinese Museum

Celebrate the biggest day of Melbourne’s Chinese Lunar New Year.

Stroll through the annual Chinatown Street Festival, watch the iconic Millennium Dragon Parade, and immerse yourself in the vibrant traditions of Chinese New Year. 

Chinese Museum Discounted Entry 

Admission

• $8 general admission 
• Free for Children 12yrs and under and Chinese Museum Members

Program of events at the Chinese Museum:

Five Elements–Inspired Crystal Bracelet Experience

Inspired by the Five Elements and the Year of the Horse, participants design their own crystal bracelets by selecting stones aligned with their personal energy and New Year wishes, symbolising balance, vitality, and good fortune. 

In the Path of the Dao

Find out about your fortune in 2026. The Australia Chinese Taoism Association promotes Taoist philosophy and community engagement. The event features intangible cultural heritage, cultural products, and interactive activities like talisman drawing and fortune slip interpretation. 

Personalised Chinese New Year Blessings Display Couplet (Fai Chun 揮春) written by a Chinese Calligrapher and Artist  

Choose your favorite Chinese New Year Blessing Couplet (Fai Chun 揮春) to be meticulously crafted by a renowned Chinese calligrapher and artist—perfect for displaying at home or in the office to usher in prosperity and joy. Witness stunning live demonstrations of traditional Chinese calligraphy and painting, where you can also purchase one-of-a-kind artworks to cherish or gift.  

Lantern Making Workshop ($6 per lantern making kit, pay on the day) 

Make your own traditional Chinese lantern to take home! 

Chinese Museum Permanent Exhibitions

Including One Million Stories, Han Dynasty Everlasting, Finding Gold and the magnificent Dragon Gallery.

Year of the horse Pop Up Shop 

While stocks last! Grab your Year of the Horse souvenirs from our pop-up store in the Chinatown Street Festival. 

Check Melbourne Dai Loong Dragon Parade Route👇

Chinese New Year Cultural Showcase supported by: